Exceeding Abundantly Above All We Ask or Think
“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us” Ephesians 3:20
Imagine for a moment being in Jacob’s shoes. He spent years grieving for his son Joseph, whom he believed was dead. The pain of a parent losing a child is unimaginable, and Jacob’s heart was undoubtedly heavy with sorrow and loss. But God had a different plan, a plan woven with hope and reunion.
In an unexpected turn of events, not only was Joseph alive, but he had risen to become the second most powerful man in the world. When Jacob learned that Joseph was alive, it must have felt like a dream—something beyond his wildest hopes. And yet, there was more. Jacob didn’t just get to see his son again; he was also blessed to meet his grandchildren, Ephraim and Manasseh. This reunion was not a mere restoration of what was lost; it was an augmentation, a blessing far exceeding Jacob’s expectations.
“And Israel said unto Joseph, I had not thought to see thy face: and, lo, God hath shewed me also thy seed.” Genesis 48:11
The story of Joseph and Jacob is not an isolated instance in the Scripture. Throughout the Bible, we find numerous accounts where God’s generosity far surpasses human expectations.
These stories serve as powerful reminders of His ability to provide and bless in extraordinary ways.
1. The Restoration of Job (Job 42:10-17):
Consider the story of Job. His life was marked by intense suffering and loss, yet the conclusion of his story is one of profound restoration. God not only healed Job but also doubled his previous wealth, illustrating His power to transform sorrow into greater joy and prosperity.
2. Solomon’s Wisdom & Wealth (1 Kings 3:5-14):
Solomon, when given a choice by God to ask for whatever he wanted, asked for wisdom to better serve the people. Remarkably, God’s response was to grant him not just the wisdom he sought but also immense wealth and honor. This story is a testament to God’s willingness to provide more than we ask for.
3. The Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16):
In a time of great need, the widow of Zarephath encountered Elijah. With only a handful of flour and a bit of oil, she witnessed a miracle. God miraculously sustained her food supply, showing His power to provide abundantly in times of scarcity.
4. Peter’s Miraculous Catch (Luke 5:4-7):
Peter, an experienced fisherman, had caught nothing all night. Yet, at Jesus’ command, he let down his nets one more time, resulting in a catch so large it nearly sunk the boats. This event underlines God’s ability to bless our efforts beyond our wildest expectations.
5. Feeding the 5000 (Matthew 14:13-21):
With only five loaves and two fish, Jesus managed to feed a multitude. This miracle is a vivid demonstration of how God can take our modest offerings and multiply them to meet the needs of many, exemplifying His extravagant provision.
Each of these stories from Scripture highlights God’s immense capacity to go beyond what we can conceive. They underscore a fundamental truth: our God is a God of abundance, eager to bless and provide for His children in ways that far exceed our requests and imaginations.
Perhaps the greatest example of God’s nature to exceed expectations is found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event is the cornerstone of our faith, symbolizing the ultimate victory over sin and death. Through Christ’s resurrection, we have access to the most precious gift of all—eternal life. This promise of salvation and a place in heaven far surpasses any earthly blessing we could receive.
As we reflect on these stories and the truth of Ephesians 3:20, let us be encouraged that our God is not just capable of meeting our needs but is eagerly waiting to exceed them. In every aspect of our lives, whether in times of loss, in need of wisdom, in scarcity, or in our daily toils, God is ready to bless us more abundantly than all we could ask or think. Trust in Him, for in His hands, our expectations are not just met; they are exceeded.
